Skip The Gravel And Pavers For A Rustic, Natural Patio

Gravel and pavers have long been the standard for simple backyard patio spaces. But this look isn't going to suit every homeowner's style. If you recently cut down a tree or did a major tree trim, you already have the perfect material to create a rustic, natural patio area in your backyard. Using spare wood, you can create a stylish patio space without breaking the bank. If you take the time to turn your tree scraps into wood rounds, you can easily craft a stunning addition to your backyard sanctuary.

For this project, you'll be placing cut wood rounds within your designated patio zone, almost as if they were pavers. There are a variety of ways to go about slicing your discarded tree trunks into wood rounds. Use tools such as a circular saw, chain saw, saw jaw, or table saw to create 3 to 4 inch thick rounds yourself. If you go this route, make sure you're confident you can do so safely. There are also plenty of wood-cutting services you can take advantage of. Search for woodworking near you to find options. You can also opt to buy pre-cut wood rounds from your local timber supplier or online sources such as Etsy, but you might find these can be rather pricey.

Once you've secured your wood rounds, you'll need to ensure they're perfectly dry. This part can be a bit of a waiting game, taking anywhere from 60 to 200 days depending on the tree species. This drying time is important because it will stop the rounds from warping or decaying once they're laid around your patio.

Your first order of business when planning out your rustic patio is to choose a location. Outline your selected area with an edging border. From there, you can fill the area with sand or fine gravel. Make sure this layer is leveled out evenly. Now it's time to prep your wood rounds. To start, sand both the front and back of the rounds. Now stain and seal them to ensure they are protected from the elements. You can also stick with a transparent wood stain if you prefer a more natural look. Allow your rounds to completely dry before you proceed to the next step.

Once your rounds are dry, arrange them within your designated patio area however you please. You can start with the bigger pieces and move on to the smaller rounds as you go. Don't be afraid to move the pieces around until you're satisfied. Once you settle on an arrangement, use a lightweight mulch or gravel to fill in the gaps so the patio is one cohesive layer. And there you have it! A rustic patio using wood that may have otherwise gone to waste. There are plenty of other ways to use spare wood trimming, too. You can add even more natural beauty to your yard by using your wood rounds to create a charming pathway. And if you still have leftover materials, you can make use of tree logs with a backyard DIY bistro table.